Embracing Future Skills in Family Business: A Thomas Hübl-Inspired Perspective
The past two decades have unveiled rapid changes that affect how we work, think, and interact. For family businesses leaders, these transformations demand a reevaluation of the skills necessary for future success, both for individuals and organizations. Drawing insights from the work of Thomas Hübl on collective trauma and integration, and aligning with the vision of the Institute for the Future, we can better understand the holistic and interconnected skills required to thrive in the forthcoming business environment.
The Shift Towards Teal Organizations
Teal organizations represent the next evolution in business structures, transcending traditional hierarchies to embrace a more fluid, purpose-driven approach. In these organizations, roles are defined by individual strengths and passions, not rigid job descriptions. This shift is not merely structural but deeply spiritual and psychological, reflecting Hübl’s principles of healing and wholeness in systems. By fostering a workplace where employees engage out of a sense of personal fulfillment and alignment with organizational values, businesses can cultivate environments that not only adapt to but lead in a rapidly changing world.
Key Future Skills for Family Businesses
Complex Problem Solving - As challenges become less predictable, the ability to navigate complex issues creatively and effectively becomes crucial. This skill is deeply connected to the inner work of understanding oneself and one’s place within the system, a core tenet of Hübl’s teachings.
Emotional and Social Intelligence - These skills are paramount in a world where collaborative work and empathy gain prominence over hierarchical command. Understanding and managing one’s own emotions, as well as empathetically interacting with others, are foundational for creating a supportive work environment.
Adaptability and Flexibility - The rapid pace of change necessitates a workforce that can pivot quickly and effectively without losing sight of their values and vision. This aligns with the spiritual practice of presence and mindfulness, emphasizing staying grounded even in flux.
Technological Literacy - As digital transformations accelerate, understanding and leveraging technology will be indispensable. However, this skill must be balanced with the capacity to maintain human connections, ensuring technology serves to enhance rather than detract from the human experience.
Leadership and Social Influence - Future leaders must inspire and guide their teams through complex transformations with a focus on shared purpose and collective well-being, echoing Hübl’s focus on transgenerational healing and leadership that acknowledges the past while guiding the future.
Integrating Skills with Vision
For family businesses, the integration of these skills into daily practices means looking beyond conventional training and development. It involves a deep, ongoing engagement with personal and collective development, drawing on resources like mindfulness, systemic constellations, and other reflective practices to ensure every team member—not just leaders—understands and contributes to the business’s higher purpose.
Conclusion
As we look to the future, family businesses are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in embracing these new organizational forms and skills. Rooted in deep values and long-term visions, they can pioneer the integration of personal growth and business development, creating models of success that are sustainable, holistic, and aligned with the evolving demands of the global market. Embracing these future skills within the teal framework not only prepares family businesses for future challenges but also ensures they do so in a way that is true to their core values and missions.